By: Natalie M. Zeigler
City Manager
Our local community is lucky to possess a rich history. It can be seen within the artifacts on display at the Hartsville Museum or at the Hart Cottage and other historical houses around town. Unfortunately, not all historical places are kept in great shape. Our community has within it a forgotten past that the City and community wishes to restore.
Located on Marion Avenue near Lincoln Village, the Historic Marion Avenue Cemetery was owned and maintained by a board of individuals. Unfortunately, plans for perpetual care were not put into place. Therefore, the cemetery has been abandoned for quite some time. Trees have grown up around the graves covering the entrance to the cemetery. Additionally, grave markers have been broken. After catching the attention of City officials, a cemetery committee has been in an effort to raise funds for the proper preservation and restoration of the cemetery. The Chicora Foundation composed a plan for the cemetery and estimated the cost for restoration to be over $30,000. The City has committed to the care of the cemetery if community fundraising comes in at over $10,000.
In addition to fundraising efforts, preservation efforts are already underway through the committee as specialists and local history enthusiasts have worked diligently identifying potential burials within the cemetery. Several key community figures have been identified as well as veterans. The historic cemetery dates back to the early 1900s. Other efforts have allowed community members to become hands-on with the cemetery through a preservation workshop. On September 23rd, these community members and leaders joined together for the preservation workshop. The workshop included field demonstrations as well as discussions on mapping and documenting graves, introduction to preservation strategies, and review of future plans for the cemetery. The workshop was at capacity with over 15 people participating, further showing a commitment by the community for the preservation of this historic cemetery.
It is important that our local history and heritage not be forgotten. We urge those with an interest in the cemetery or information about burials within the cemetery grounds to volunteer and contact the City’s committee. Contact City Hall for more information about meetings at 843.383.3015. Additionally, tax deductible donations for the preservation of the Historic Marion Avenue Cemetery may be made payable by cash or check to the City of Hartsville, memo: Marion Avenue Cemetery.
Natalie Zeigler is the City Manager of Hartsville. For more information, call City Hall at 843-383-3015 or email info2@hartsvillesc.gov.